In response to the growing problem of parking congestion, Carlton Cole Magee invented the first parking meter in 1932.  Since that time parking meters have evolved from the original all mechanical meters to the state-of-the-art solar-powered meters we use today. Parking meters assist businesses by limiting the time a motorist can park in a spot, thus creating turnover and available parking for customers.

Presently, Portland is using two types of meters - the Single-Space and the SmartMeter (paystation) to monitor approximately 9,700 spaces.  Single-space meters accept nickels, dimes, and quarters. SmartMeters accept nickels, dimes, quarters, the small dollar coin, and credit/debit cards as payment.

If a SmartMeter is broken you must still provide proof of payment, so purchase a receipt from the nearest machine.  If a single-space meter is broken, you may park your vehicle for the time limit of that meter; after that you must move your vehicle from the block face.  

To report broken meters call 503-823-7200.